Looking for standout business events in Geelong? You don’t need to wait until 2026 to experience one of Victoria’s fastest-growing regional event destinations.
Yes, the buzz around the Nyaal Banyul Convention and Event Centre is real. Slated to open mid-2026, this state-of-the-art precinct will feature a 1,000-seat plenary, 3,700 square metres of flexible event space, and Geelong’s largest hotel at 200 rooms, elevating the city’s status as a go-to for large-scale conferences and exhibitions.
But here’s the thing: Geelong is already open for business.
With over 40 established venues, more than 1,500 accommodation rooms, and a thriving event support network, Geelong’s conference scene is already making waves. Not to mention those beachside views that feel more like a holiday than a work trip.
Let’s take a closer look at some of Geelong’s top-tier conference venues and event spaces:
Higher Mark at GMHBA Stadium
Capacity: 2 to 2,450 guests
Event Type: Conferences, exhibitions, social events and gala dinners
Located at the iconic home of the Geelong Cats, Higher Mark is Victoria’s largest regional event venue. Think stadium energy meets five-star functionality. With 32 adaptable spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the playing field, and panoramic views of the city skyline—it’s perfect for conferences with impact. Plus, their 10-year extension with the O’Brien Group means your delegates are in for a top-notch food and beverage experience.
Novotel Geelong
Capacity: Up to 250 delegates
Event Type: Business retreats, workshops, social events
Overlooking the Geelong waterfront, Novotel combines convenience, comfort and a coastal atmosphere. With 12 flexible event spaces and 109 guest rooms, it’s ideal for multi-day events. Bonus points: the on-site Tempo Kitchen & Bar showcases the best of Victoria’s local produce—perfect for networking dinners and post-event wind-downs.
Rydges Geelong
Capacity: Up to 600 cocktail / 231 cabaret
Event Type: Conferences, networking, corporate training
In the heart of the CBD, Rydges offers 138 modern rooms and six pillarless event spaces, including a private Events Centre with its own dedicated entrance. The venue’s open-plan layout and large foyer make it ideal for catering breaks, trade displays, or welcome drinks before the main event.
Geelong Arts Centre
Capacity: Up to 1,421 delegates
Event Type: Keynotes, plenaries, awards nights
Freshly redeveloped in 2023, the Geelong Arts Centre is now Australia’s largest dedicated regional arts precinct. The centre blends architectural brilliance with purpose-built performance and conferencing spaces which makes it ideal for keynote-heavy programs with a creative edge.
Geelong Library & Heritage Centre
Capacity: Up to 300 delegates
Event Type: Executive retreats, intimate conferences, presentations
A true architectural icon. The Wurdi Youang (The High Ground) event space under the dome is as inspiring as it is functional—complete with advanced technology and sweeping views over Corio Bay and the You Yangs. A perfect blend of design, innovation, and practicality.
Why Choose Geelong for Your Next Event?
From Geelong event management professionals to on-the-ground support, this region blends big-city energy with coastal calm. Whether it’s a product launch, executive summit, or industry conference—Geelong delivers a premium event experience with less of the big-city bustle.
And with continued investment through the Geelong City Deal, backed by all levels of government, this regional hub is only getting better.
👉 Contact GCEM today and discover why you don’t need to wait to make Geelong your next business events destination.
